MILFORD, PA — Two free concerts, free ice cream, complimentary historic mansion tours, Smokey Bear, children’s activities, and community picnicking will come together on Sunday, August 9, as the Grey Towers Heritage Association, in partnership with Kindred Spirits hosts the Grey Towers Ice Cream Social & Pinchot Picnic Music Festival at Grey Towers National Historic Site.

The free community celebration honors the 161st birthday of Gifford Pinchot, America’s first Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, and the 82nd birthday of Smokey Bear, while continuing the tradition of welcoming families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy music, history, conservation, and fellowship on the beautiful grounds of Grey Towers.

“Throughout his life, Gifford Pinchot welcomed friends, neighbors, and visitors to Grey Towers to share ideas, enjoy music, and celebrate community,” said Jeffrey McQuaid, President of the Grey Towers Heritage Association. “This event continues that tradition by bringing together people of all ages for a day of free entertainment, education, and enjoyment on one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful historic estates.”

The afternoon features two exceptional musical performances in the Grey Towers Amphitheater. Beginning at 12:00 noon, Doug Smith’s Dixieland All-Stars will perform traditional New Orleans jazz and Dixieland favorites.

Later in the afternoon, internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso Alexander Markov will present Classical Favorites & Celebration of the American Spirit, blending beloved classical masterpieces with his signature electrifying rock violin style.

Visitors will enjoy:

• FREE concerts
• FREE admission to the historic Grey Towers Mansion (Noon–3:00 p.m.)
• FREE ice cream
• Family-friendly StageCraft activities and children’s crafts
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with Smokey Bear
• Access to the Grey Towers Gift Shop
• Self-guided enjoyment of Grey Towers’ gardens and grounds
• Community picnicking throughout the afternoon

A special feature of this year’s event is the Pinchot Picnic Partners program, encouraging visitors to bring a picnic or purchase specially prepared picnic meals from participating Milford restaurants, bakeries, cafés, and markets. The initiative showcases local businesses while creating a uniquely Milford experience that connects the Grey Towers estate with the surrounding community.

“Few events combine free concerts, free ice cream, historic mansion tours, family activities, and a picnic on the grounds of a National Historic Site,” McQuaid said. “Whether you come for the music, the history, the family activities, or simply to relax with friends on the lawn, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating in the amphitheater, along with hats, umbrellas, or other sun protection, as much of the seating and picnic area is in full sun. Admission and all activities are free.